If the idea of a road trip combining the excitement of Barcelona with the majestic Catalan Pyrenees on the Spanish side appeals to you, this week-long itinerary in Catalonia promises an adventure rich in discoveries, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic experiences. Follow the guide for an unforgettable road trip in Catalonia.
Catalonia Tour: What to do and see from Barcelona to the Pyrenees in 4 to 8 days on the Spanish side?
Every stage of this road trip in Catalonia has its charm and is worth remembering. Here is an authentic tour in the more secret lands of the province of Barcelona. From small picturesque villages to the gateway to the Pyrenees, you will discover some gems less than 2 hours from Barcelona. In this article, I discuss my trip with my tips and good deals in Catalonia , my opinion on the accommodations for this 1-week trip. In short, everything you need to know for a successful vacation in Catalonia .
GOOD DEALS IN CATALONIA
Itinerary in Catalonia 1 week in the Province of Barcelona with stages:
- FRANCE > BARCELONA: RENFE TGV train between cities in the south of France and Spain.
- Barcelona (1 day)
- Osona region (3 to 4 days)
- The Collsacabra
- Rupit
- Tavertet
- The Bisaura
- Berguedà region (2 days)
- Vallcebre
- Montclar
- BARCELONA or GIRONA > FRANCE
For this trip you will need a car: book your vehicle now at the best price >
Catalonia map of places to see and things to do between Barcelona and the regions of Osona and Berguedà
Here’s a map of Catalonia, specifically the province of Barcelona, which will help you supplement the explanations and advice in this guide.
1-WEEK ROAD TRIP IN CATALONIA
Stage 1 road trip in Catalonia: Visit Barcelona
Before leaving the capital of Catalonia to venture into the great outdoors , I visited Barcelona in 1 day . In fact, I advise you to arrive the day before and leave the day after to have a real full day dedicated to visiting several must-see places. Knowing that by coming by train from France, you can rent a car directly in the city center of Barcelona to continue exploring Catalonia.
⤷ Things to do and see in Barcelona:
- Visit the Sagrada Familia, a must-see in Barcelona
- Stroll through Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and eat tapas at a bodega
- See the architecture of Lluís Domènech i Montaner: the Palace of Catalan Music and the Hospital de Sant Pau, classified by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.
- Discover Gaudi, Catalan architect, through the many architectures of Barcelona
- Visit the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation
- Go to Mount Tibidado and its amusement park on the heights of Barcelona
How to visit Barcelona? You’ll need to plan your visit to Barcelona in advance and book entrance tickets to the places you want to see. The city is always busy, and even in the off-season, you’ll find tourists willing to queue up with their tickets booked online. Visiting Barcelona isn’t something you can just improvise.
Then, after this urban exploration, head for the countryside and the plains of Vic , 1 hour from Barcelona in the north of Catalonia.
1-WEEK ROAD TRIP IN CATALONIA
Itinerary in Catalonia: Discovering the Osona region
After leaving Barcelona and seeing the immense fields dotted with small villages here and there, the landscapes suddenly take on relief in the north of the Osona region . At the foot of the Collsacabra massif , you can stop in the mountain village of Cantonigròs . You will be welcomed with simplicity and kindness at the Hostal Cabrerès .
Find your hotel in Cantonigros >
Visit the places of interest in Collsacabra
Collsacabra, this mountainous region of Catalonia, captivates with its natural beauty and rural charm. Nestled between the provinces of Girona and Barcelona, it is characterized by its rugged terrain, waterfalls, and valleys with varied forests. This mountainous landscape is home to preserved medieval villages , such as Rupit and Tavertet , which seem frozen in time with their cobbled streets, stone houses, and panoramas of the surrounding cliffs.
Staying in Cantonigròs puts you in the perfect position to visit a wonderful waterfall just a 20-minute walk from the village center. The Foradada waterfall is a precious natural site in the Osona region, not to be missed during dry periods .
For your first evening in the province of Barcelona, explore the region’s specialties with dinner at El Roc restaurant , which serves excellent local meats. A first taste of authentic Catalan cuisine.
VISIT CATALONIA IN 1 WEEK
Stage 2 of the road trip in Catalonia: exploring the cliffs of Collsacabra
Go hiking in the Serra de Cabrera , a mountain range in the heart of the Collsacabra Natural Park. Famous hiking trails lead to remarkable viewpoints. As you explore Collsacabra, you’ll discover a rich biodiversity, with varied flora and fauna flourishing in this unique setting.
Collsacabra is also steeped in a rich history, with archaeological remains that bear witness to human presence in the area for centuries.
Take a hike full of history from the Ermita de Sant Julià to the Santuari de Cabrera
The Santuari de Cabrera hike takes you through breathtaking landscapes. Highlights include the Church of Sant Julià de Cabrera and the Cabrera Castle . Ultimately, I recommend doing this hike with a local guide. They will take you to these hidden gems, explaining the history of the place. We had a great time with Jordi and his dog Maya on this autumnal climb. Overall, it allowed me to focus on the scenery and less on the hiking route.
Throughout the hike, you pass through a very changing landscape, going from peaceful pastures to steep paths where only Mediterranean shrubs and plants seem to grow. Further on, a dense forest of century-old deciduous trees leads to a barren plateau where the 17th-century sanctuary of Our Lady of Cabrera is located .
The trail is rocky and uneven, so it is necessary to wear good hiking shoes, especially for the very exposed sections at the Cabrera Stairs and the Osca de Cabrera . When the weather permits, the panorama is incredible.
Hiking guide of Serra de Cabrera by Sant Julià de Cabrera
In short, on the route from the cemetery to the sanctuary, you will discover a unique mountain range with beautiful views of the Pyrenees, the Garrotxa, the Collsacabra and the Vic plain. The route passes through the hooks of the Osca de Cabrera, the emblematic peak of Cabrerès (1,308 m) and the Santuari de Cabrera (former site of the Cabrera castle). The hike is of an intermediate level (some tricky passages for those with vertigo) and is 4.8 km long with a positive elevation gain of 470 m. Allow about 3 hours with a short break at the sanctuary on the plateau.
BEST ROAD TRIP IN CATALONIA
Stage 3 of the road trip in Catalonia: Visit the picturesque village of Rupit
In the heart of the Sau Valley – Collsacabra , the road leads to the fascinating medieval town of Rupit . Perched at an altitude of 845 meters, Rupit is a small marvel nestled in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Here, geology and human history blend harmoniously. Rupit’s atmosphere evokes a real postcard, with its cobbled streets, its famous wooden suspension bridge, and its houses with Gothic windows dating back to the 17th century. Perhaps you will hear stories here of the adventures of Serrallonga. Indeed, this was a time marked by the exploits of this local bandit.
The imposing silhouette of Rupit Castle dominates the landscape, a testament to the region’s rich historical heritage. A visit to Rupit promises an immersive exploration, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, stone houses with red-tiled roofs, and the tranquil atmosphere of a bygone era. The village also offers authentic gastronomic experiences . Notably, the Fonda Marçal restaurant , where visitors can enjoy traditional Catalan dishes.
For a guided tour of Rupit, contact the Rupit Tourist Office. You’ll have the opportunity to climb the church tower for a breathtaking view of the charming village of Rupit.
If the weather permits, go down to see the Rupit waterfall, the Saut de Sallent . Access is from the heart of the village, follow the sign Mirador del Salt de Sallent.
Where to stay in Rupit? The best hotels
To enjoy this remarkable village, here are my favorite addresses in Rupit:
- For families or friends, a charming holiday home in Rupit with 3 bedrooms.
- Book a comfortable room in Rupit in a large building with views of the surrounding cliffs and forests.
- Or choose to sleep in the heart of the village of Rupit in a picturesque room with exposed stone.
Explore Rupit i Pruit
Not far from Rupit lies the peaceful village of Pruit, located at an altitude of 950 meters. Composed of scattered farms, scattered meadows, and hills near the Lower Valley, Pruit offers a secluded atmosphere conducive to peaceful contemplation of the landscape. Both Rupit and Pruit seem timeless, inviting visitors to savor the tranquility of this space.
From the south of Rupit, the view extends to the Maréchal de Guilleries, Collsacabra, Montseny, and the characteristic natural monument of Angulla. The surrounding cliffs, particularly those of Tavertet, offer spectacular panoramas, creating an impressive backdrop for this getaway to the region. Rupit, with its unique blend of medieval charm and nature, promises a captivating moment in the heart of Catalonia. A must-see place to put on your itinerary!
DISCOVERY OF THE CATALAN HINTERLAND
Stage 4 road trip in Catalonia: Visit to Tavertet
Tavertet , nestled along the River Ter, emerges as a geologically robust enclave, surrounded by majestic cliffs that define its unique landscape. To contemplate Tavertet, one follows the road that leaves Rupit. The historical isolation and the rugged terrain have preserved the authenticity of its 48 houses built between the 17th and 18th centuries, harmoniously integrating the natural environment.
In fact, Tavertet, which had no roads until the mid-20th century, has a remarkable curiosity with its three initial streets: Upper, Middle, and Lower. The unique union between nature and civilization earned Tavertet the status of cultural heritage awarded by the Generalitat de Catalunya in 2003.
Hike the majestic cliffs of Tavertet
One of Tavertet’s most notable attractions remains its striking cliffs, visible by walking along various trails. In particular, the Puig de la Forca trail , which starts from Carrer Moyen and winds through these rock formations. Also note the wonderful Mirador del Morro de l’Abella viewpoint and the Mirador del Ter, which are easily accessible from the Vic plain.
Where to sleep near the Tavertet cliffs?
You can stay in Rupit to visit Tavertet; I’ve suggested some great places a little further up in this article. And if there are several of you, I found this gem of a 92m² accommodation with two bedrooms that seems perfect to me. And if you’re looking for the peace and quiet of a small village, the small chalets of Tavertet are certainly ideal.
On the road: meeting with an artisan cheesemaker
On the way, I recommend you stop by L’Esquirol for a tour and cheese tasting . Go directly to the artisan cheesemaker Roger Riudavets who pampers his wheels like trophies. Also, there is something for everyone, each product has its own aromas and assets to thrill the taste buds. Moreover, you will not be able to leave here without a souvenir smelling of the Catalan countryside.
VISIT CATALONIA IN 1 WEEK
Stage 5 road trip in Catalonia: El Bisaura in the west of Osona
The western Osona region, particularly around Sant Quirze de Besora , reveals landscapes full of character and rustic beauty. Exploring this part of Catalonia, you will be greeted by rolling hills where cultivated fields alternate with dense forests. This is El Bisaura and its panoramas, tinged with varied greens and ochre, evoke a serenity full of authenticity. The winding roads that meander through this countryside offer changing perspectives, revealing panoramic views of the Pyrenees in the distance. In addition, small hamlets scattered here and there add a picturesque note, giving the region a timeless ambiance. Here are some ideas of must-do things to do in this corner of Catalonia .
Hike in the Bisaura region to the Bellmunt Sanctuary
The historical remains scattered throughout western Osona, such as ancient hermitages, medieval castles, and other cultural monuments, add a fascinating dimension to this region. Each stone seems to whisper tales of the past, inviting visitors to explore the rich heritage of this part of Catalonia.
Bellmunt Sanctuary Hike
The Bellmunt Sanctuary , located in the Osona region of Catalonia, is a magnificent place. Perched at an impressive altitude of over 1,200 meters on a rocky spur, it not only offers spectacular views of the Pyrenees in Catalonia , the Bellmunt forest and the Vic plain, but also a unique cultural experience.
Indeed, one must delve into history and imagine that the sanctuary, an example of Catalan religious architecture, stood next to the old castle of Sa Raganyada. This allowed the Count of Besalú to monitor the surrounding area from his home during the medieval wars. You understand the importance of living on a rock at such high altitude. Today, the castle no longer exists, but the restored sanctuary houses a chapel dedicated to the Virgin. Bellmunt has become an important pilgrimage site over the centuries. In fact, pilgrims climb the last few meters on foot to reach the summit, adding a spiritual dimension to their visit.
There is a small car park below the sanctuary which can be reached from Sant Pere de Torellí . You can also explore the surrounding area, where hiking trails lead to stunning views of the surrounding countryside. A marvel in autumn with the russet hues.
Where to stay to visit the Bellmunt Sanctuary?
To continue your itinerary in Catalonia, you could spend the night not far from the sanctuary to walk around the area at the best times of day (morning and sunset). And what could be better than sleeping directly in the sanctuary, which has become a high-end refuge? Book your night in the Bellmunt Sanctuary >
Sant Quirze de Besora and surrounding areas
Between the Vic plain and the majestic peaks of the Pyrenees, the region of El Bisaura , with Sant Quirze de Besora at its heart, is truly an off-the-beaten-track Catalan getaway . Indeed, this haven of peace, crossed by the River Ter, seduces with its strikingly beautiful landscapes. The hills and tranquil valleys tell the story of centuries of local agriculture. Don’t miss the small hilltop village of Santa Maria de Besora .
Where to stay in the El Bisaura region?
I recommend some lovely places that combine rural charm and comfort in the surroundings of Sant Quirze de Besora in Bisaura.
- A very nice hotel in San Vicente de Torelló with excellent value for money.
- A detour further north into the mountains to enjoy an enchanting break in a peaceful Mas with a spa and swimming pool with particularly exceptional decoration.
Road trip in Catalonia: Discover the gardens of Montesquiu Castle
Montesquiu Castle is a medieval gem nestled in the Osona region of Catalonia, embodying the elegance of 14th-century Iberian architecture. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, this rather massive castle stands out with its towers and ramparts, evoking a bygone era of chivalry. Surrounded by peaceful gardens overlooking the Ter Valley, Montesquiu Castle offers the opportunity for an unforgettable historical stroll surrounded by nature.
Catalonia Itinerary: Distillery Visit and Ratafia Tasting
A must-try experience in Sant Quirze de Besora is the tasting of ratafia . This is a traditional Catalan liqueur made from nuts and aromatic plants.
In this charming Catalan village, ratafia, a traditional liqueur, embodies the very essence of regional conviviality . Local distilleries, such as Ratafia Bosch , open their doors to the curious for a sensory immersion. During these tastings, the subtle nuances of aromatic herbs, local fruits, and spices reveal the richness of the Catalan terroir . Accompanied by fascinating stories about its production process, tasting ratafia in Sant Quirze de Besora thus becomes a special moment.
Visit and tasting at the Ratafia Bosch distillery in Sant Quirze de Besora: inquire at the Osona tourist office >
Visit the Copper Museum in the province of Barcelona
In the heart of Catalonia, don’t miss a visit to the Copper Museum , located more precisely in Les Masies de Voltregà. The establishment presents exhibitions highlighting the evolution of copper manufacturing techniques, from traditional methods to contemporary innovations. In short, the museum is an enriching stop for fans of industrial history and those curious to discover the metallurgical heritage of the province of Barcelona . Find this site of interest on the map of Catalonia at the beginning of the article >
VISIT CATALONIA FROM BARCELONA TO THE CATALAN PYRENEES
Itinerary in Catalonia: The Berguedà region
Berguedà is a picturesque region of Catalonia that is relatively unknown to the French, yet it is the gateway to the Catalan Pyrenees . Indeed, it is here that the Pyrenees mountains meet the plains of Catalonia. Also, the roads climb, winding, towards the passes revealing endless landscapes.
So, the road trip in Catalonia continues in these majestic mountains with sharp ridges. Plenty of outdoor activities! But also to see authentic villages and discover unexpected prehistoric treasures.
ITINERARY IN CATALONIA
Stage 6 road trip in Catalonia: visit Vallcebre and its surroundings
People come to Vallcebre for the mountains and outdoor activities , but also for the geological history and mining heritage of the Berguedà region . It’s an ideal setting for an original, completely disconnected holiday.
Things to see on the Vallcebre road: fossilized dinosaur footprints
In these mountains, you can see dinosaur footprints . In fact, you will see two paleontological sites in Vallcebre . First, before descending to the village coming from the beautiful national BV-4025, there is the Fumanya Dinosaur Interpretation Center . The old open-air coal mine of Fumanya, active between 1975 and 1986, revealed an impressive paleontological site with more than 3,500 dinosaur footprints more than 65 million years old . Imagine the Pyrenees horizontally! This part of the Earth’s crust was a river plain where dinosaurs grazed peacefully. On the other hand, going up towards the Pradell pass , you will have the opportunity to approach some of these footprints frozen in the stone. This is found around the Tumi lake .
Do a guided via ferrata in Vallcebre
Furthermore, the Vallcebre mountains are ideal for via ferrata and rock climbing. The routes feature cables, ladders, and suspension bridges. Adrenaline seekers will love climbing the rock faces, offering breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an introduction or an experienced climber, the Vallcebre via ferrata will be a thrilling adventure. Especially with local guides like Sergi and Irene from Pendol Guies , who offer circuits adapted to different levels , ensuring a safe and memorable experience for all participants.
Discover the mines of Berguedà
Since you’re in the area, I suggest exploring the captivating underground history of the Berguedà region by visiting the Cercs mines . Indeed, the museum will immerse you in the daily life of 19th-century miners. A fascinating visit, delving into Berguedà’s industrial past. The well-preserved facilities and detailed explanations offer a captivating insight into the local mining history. Then, above Vallcebre, near the via ferrata site, you can freely see the remains of the Trenet mining railway .
Viewpoints to visit around Vallcebre
After a delicious lunch in a picturesque mountain restaurant in Vallcebre , you will continue your road trip towards other breathtaking panoramas. First of all, the Mirador De Cap-deig viewpoint which is on the road down from Vallcebre. Then if you have time, explore the trails of the Pedraforca massif . It will be a beautiful adventure in the heart of Catalan nature. In addition, know that on the way to Saldes, you will come across the most beautiful spot overlooking this heart-shaped peak. It is the Mirador del Pedraforca . At worst, to avoid driving too much, you can observe another angle of view just above the Trenet mines and Lake Tumi. Indeed, the Coll de Pradell offers ample consolation. Find all these places of interest on the
Where to sleep near Pedraforca?
Depending on the season, you can stay at the Pedraforca campsite at a lower cost in order to hike in this magnificent massif.
And I found you a refuge located in an idyllic setting for trips with friends, especially a motorcycle road trip or for a family itinerary.
For more comfort, I recommend a charming address further down in this article.
Review Restaurant La Rectoria de Vallcebre
La Rectoria in Vallcebre is a charming place that I recommend for your road trip in Catalonia. First, I loved the mountain views, the authentic decor with the wood-burning stove, and the small bouquets of dried flowers. But I appreciated even more the local products and the homemade cuisine that favors short supply chains. And finally, I fell in love with the establishment’s delicious specialty, “l’Estofat de vedella.”
VISIT CATALONIA IN 1 WEEK
Stage 7 road trip in Catalonia: discovery of Montclar
Visit Montclar in the Berguedà region
The story of Montclar is quite unique: it’s one of community resurrection. Once abandoned and forgotten, this medieval village in Berguedà, Catalonia, has found new life thanks to the bold initiative of a group of determined friends.
Indeed, Montclar was neglected due to various historical and demographic circumstances. However, in an inspiring gesture of heritage preservation , a group of friends passionate about the history and beauty of this place decided to revive this sleepy village. They undertook the colossal task of restoring the ruined buildings. But also of rehabilitating the cobbled streets. All this with the aim of bringing Montclar back to life with a common vision of preservation and sharing.
Today, the village is a small marvel of tranquility. It is a pleasure to stroll around just for the pleasure of bathing in an authentic and tranquil atmosphere.
Essential Oils and Perfume Making Workshop
I was able to visit Montclar in an unusual way . In fact, it was a guided tour on the theme of aromatic and medicinal plants . We then continued with a perfume creation workshop based on Essential Oils.
Sleep in a beautiful accommodation in the province of Barcelona
Located in the picturesque town of L’Espunyola , not far from Montclar, Hotel Cal Majoral offers an exceptional accommodation experience, combining rural charm with modern comforts. Bathed in the peaceful beauty of Catalonia, this establishment exudes Catalan authenticity.
Cal Majoral captivates from the moment you arrive with its warm atmosphere and preserved traditional architecture. The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated. They offer a subtle blend of old and new, creating a welcoming and elegant setting. The windows open onto breathtaking views of the mountains and countryside, adding a calming dimension to your stay.
This is the ideal place for those looking to immerse themselves in the authentic atmosphere of Catalonia. You’ll enjoy the refined comfort of a quality establishment. A stay at Cal Majoral promises unforgettable moments in the heart of the province of Barcelona.
This road trip through Catalonia, from Barcelona to the gateway to the Pyrenees, promises the perfect escape for nature lovers and history buffs. Prepare to be amazed by the small hilltop castles and vast plains lined with countless peaks that make Catalonia a dream destination for travelers eager for authentic discoveries.
